News Broadcasting
BBC acting DG Byford stresses need for maintaining independence in functioning
MUMBAI: BBC’s acting DG Mark Byford committed himself to defending the BBC’s independence, which he described as “non-negotiable”.He recently delivered a lecture to the foreign press association at Gladstone.
He also outlined the BBC’s proposals for Charter Review. Citing a broad range of examples like Panorama’s recent Saddam on the Run special Byford argued that BBC journalism had not lost its bite. “The idea that I or anyone else in the BBC would do anything to undermine the integrity of our journalism is utter nonsense. Anyone who believes otherwise doesn’t understand the BBC and certainly doesn’t know me. We remain totally committed to delivering reliable news; expert analysis, intelligent debate and courageous, ground-breaking original journalism.
Byford added that the BBC’s international broadcasting services could strengthen connections with global audiences. “We can start the global conversation which can be an antidote to ignorance, hostility and hatred. That antidote is based on a belief in openness, tolerance and mutual understanding”. By building on strong foundations internationally the BBC would be more, rather than less, significant in the future Byford argued.
On the Charter Review, building the public value of the BBC’s television, radio and interactive services would be a cornerstone of the BBC’s approach Byford said. “Consolidation and competition in commercial broadcasting increasingly emphasises the private value of broadcasting. The BBC’s role must be to focus on delivering the public value of broadcasting – something everyone can share in.
“By public value I mean the difference we can make to the quality of life in the UK through what we can deliver to people as individual consumers of our services but also as citizens. In other words, our contribution to society as a whole.”
News Broadcasting
Kamlesh Singh receives Haldi Ghati Award from MMCF
India Today Group editor honoured for three decades of journalism at Udaipur ceremony.
MUMBAI- Kamlesh Singh just turned a lifetime of sharp words into a shiny shield because when journalism wakes up a society, even the Maharana of Mewar wants to pin a medal on it.
The Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF) conferred its prestigious Haldi Ghati Award on Kamlesh Singh, a senior editor at the India Today Group, during a ceremony in Udaipur on 15 March 2026. The national award, instituted in 1981-82, recognises “work of permanent value that initiates an awakening in society through the medium of journalism.”
Singh, who leads several editorial initiatives including Aaj Tak Radio, the Teen Taal community and The Lallantop, was presented the honour by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Managing Trustee of MMCF. The citation highlighted his three decades of contributions to Indian media, innovations in digital journalism, mentoring young reporters, and his popular podcast persona “Tau” on Teen Taal, which fosters thoughtful public discourse.
The Haldi Ghati Award, named after the historic Battle of Haldighati symbolising valour and resilience, is one of four national awards given annually by MMCF. Past recipients include Tavleen Singh, Piyush Pandey and Raj Chengappa.
Other honourees this year included Padma Vibhushan Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Vedamurti Devvrat Rekhe, Treeman of India Marimuthu Yoganathan, Vir Chakra Capt Rizwan Malik, and US-based researcher Molly Emma Aitken, who received the Colonel James Tod Award for contributions to understanding Mewar’s spirit and values.
In an era where headlines often shout louder than substance, the MMCF quietly reminded everyone that real journalism isn’t about noise, it’s about the quiet, persistent work that stirs society awake, one thoughtful story at a time.
